Key Facts
- ✓ Gaten Matarazzo played Dustin Henderson for nine-and-a-half years across five seasons
- ✓ The series finale is now streaming on Netflix
- ✓ Matarazzo was a teenager when cast in the first season
- ✓ The finale features a graduation speech from Dustin Henderson
Quick Summary
Gaten Matarazzo has reflected on the conclusion of the Netflix phenomenon after nine-and-a-half years and five seasons. The actor, who began playing Dustin Henderson as a teenager, discussed the series finale now streaming on the platform.
Key topics from his discussion included his character's graduation speech and the fate of Eleven. Matarazzo also addressed whether he thought Dustin might die during the show's run. The conversation highlighted the central theme that the kids ultimately make it through their challenges together.
A Nine-Year Journey Concludes
The Netflix series Stranger Things has officially concluded after nine-and-a-half years and five seasons. Gaten Matarazzo was barely a teenager when Matt and Ross Duffer cast him as the insatiably lovable Dustin Henderson in the first season.
Now, nearly a decade later, the phenomenon has reached its conclusion. The show's long run allowed the young cast to grow up alongside their characters. Matarazzo's journey from teenage actor to seasoned performer mirrors the evolution of the series itself.
"The point is the kids make it through"
— Gaten Matarazzo, Actor
Dustin's Finale Moment 💬
One of the emotional highlights of the finale was Dustin Henderson's graduation speech. The character, known for his intelligence and heart, delivered a memorable address to close out his story arc.
Matarazzo discussed the significance of this moment and what it meant for his character. The speech served as a capstone to Dustin's journey throughout the series. It represented the culmination of the character's growth from a curious kid to a young adult.
Fate of the Characters
The discussion covered several key character outcomes, including Eleven's fate. Matarazzo also addressed whether he ever feared his character might not survive to the end.
According to the actor, the central point of the finale is that the kids make it through. This theme of survival and friendship has been central to the series from the beginning. The conclusion emphasizes that despite all the supernatural threats, the core group remains intact.
Behind the Scenes
The series was created by Matt and Ross Duffer and produced for Netflix. The show became a cultural phenomenon during its run, launching the careers of its young cast.
After nearly a decade of production, the finale represents a significant milestone for everyone involved. The series has left a lasting impact on both the streaming platform and popular culture.
